Apple's entire iPad product line will undergo major adjustments in 2024, and dynamic updates and hardware changes are expected. From a larger iPad Air, to an OLED screen in the iPad Pro, to a faster iPad Mini model, here's what's rumored.
Apple has not released any iPads in 2023, with the M2 iPad Pro released in October 2022 being the latest hardware update. The iPad product line is well past its time for a refresh, and rumors are full of expectations for significant improvements across the entire product line.
iPad Pro rumored to launch in 2024
The biggest change for the iPad Pro models is the expected switch to OLED displays. The move is expected to bring a number of benefits, including better display quality. There is speculation that OLED screen manufacturing for iPad Pro may begin soon, with a possible launch later in 2024.
The OLED display integrated in iPad Pro enhances the visual experience in many aspects. OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology allows each pixel to emit its own light, eliminating the need for a backlight.
Since there is no backlight, the pixels can be completely turned off, resulting in true blacks and high contrast. In addition, OLED displays have more vivid colors and faster response times than LCD screens. These features help deliver a more vivid viewing experience, especially for high-end graphics work, gaming and media consumption.
In addition to the display upgrade, there are rumors that the iPad Pro will be compatible with a new version of the Magic Keyboard accessory, designed to make it more like a laptop with a stronger frame and aluminum structure. The new accessory will also support USB-C ports, which is also part of Apple's mandatory shift to universal ports. Compared to older USB ports, USB-C ports offer faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities. They also support a wider range of accessories and peripherals, making iPad Pro even more suitable for a variety of professional and creative uses.
The rumored 2024 iPad Pro models are expected to use the M3 chip. The chip, already used in MacBook Pro and iMac models, is manufactured using a 3nm process and will improve performance and efficiency.
Additionally, a new version of the Apple Pencil is also expected, possibly with interchangeable magnetically attached tips to simulate different tools.
The new design of Apple Pencil is designed to enhance its functionality in activities such as drawing, technical illustration and painting. The introduction of magnetically attachable nibs promises to simplify the process of switching between nibs, an improvement over current models that require the use of a friction-fit mechanism.
Rumors about iPad Air launch in 2024
iPad Air models are expected to continue to be compatible with existing Magic Keyboard. In addition, there is speculation that the iPad Air will be launched with a larger screen version and may be equipped with a new processor.
The most important upgrade for the iPad Air will be the transition from the M1 chipset to the M2 chipset. The M2 chip is more powerful than the previous generation chip and will improve overall performance, especially in areas such as artificial intelligence-driven tasks and graphics-intensive applications.
Rumor has it that the 12.9-inch iPad Air is expected to be released in March 2024, and its size will be consistent with the current largest iPad Pro. According to reports, there are plans to launch four models, two of which will maintain the existing size and the other two will adopt a larger 12.9-inch size.
However, the screen technology of the iPad Air is expected to remain unchanged, continuing to use the current LED-based LCD Retina display without transitioning to technologies such as mini LED or OLED.
iPad Mini and iPad rumored to launch in 2024
Updates for iPad Mini and base model iPads are also coming soon. These updates will likely include a faster processor (possibly an A16 chip).
The upcoming iPad mini 7 is not expected to feature a 120Hz display. This is not surprising, because the ProMotion technology that achieves the 120Hz refresh rate has always been exclusive to the iPad Pro series.
It is worth noting that with the launch of iPad 11, Apple is expected to discontinue iPad 9, which is the last model equipped with a home button and Lightning port.
There are also rumors that Apple is actively developing a foldable iPad, which is expected to be available in late 2024 or early 2025. According to reports, Apple is advancing this innovative foldable iPad concept and aims to start limited production before the end of 2024.
However, it's worth noting that starting production does not necessarily mean delivery. Therefore, the likelihood of the foldable iPad shipping within 2024 is low.